Dear members of the UBC community.
I would like to acknowledge that I am speaking to you from the traditional, ancestral and unceded territory of the Musqueam people.
It’s just a few weeks away from the start of the Fall term. If you’re coming to UBC for the first time, welcome! This is a significant milestone in your life, and we are honoured to be part of it. If you’re returning, welcome back! We look forward to seeing you here.
For those of you coming to the UBC Okanagan campus in particular, I understand that the wildfire situation and the COVID outbreak may be causing some concern and uncertainty.
I can assure you that we are doing everything we can to ensure your safety and comfort and to resolve any possible issues.
If you have any concerns, please contact your academic advisor. There are academic supports and alternatives available to you.
Whether you’re at the UBC Okanagan or UBC Vancouver campus, when you come to UBC, you will find a safe and welcoming environment, thanks to the thousands of people on both campuses who have been busy preparing for your arrival.
At the best of times, this is a mammoth and complex undertaking. In the midst of a pandemic, their efforts are even more impressive. I would like to thank them for their hard work, dedication and professionalism. They are my unsung heroes for this week.
Finally, as I mentioned last week, UBC, and other post secondary institutions across the province are in ongoing dialogue with the provincial government on health and safety topics of concern for students, faculty and staff.
I am hopeful there will be guidance on these issues coming shortly. I can also assure you that we are doing everything we can to ensure your safety and comfort and to resolve any possible issues.
Thank you and stay safe and be kind to each other.
Santa J. Ono
President & Vice-Chancellor